Wing Chun - Relaxation

Softness (via relaxation) and performing techniques in a relaxed manner, is fundamental to Wing Chun.
*Tension reduces punching speed and power. Muscles act in pairs in opposition to each other (e.g. biceps and triceps). If the arm is tensed, maximum punching speed cannot be achieved as the biceps will be opposing the extension of the arm. In Wing Chun, the arm should be relaxed *before beginning the punching motion.
*Unnecessary muscle tension wastes energy and causes fatigue.
*Tense, stiff arms are less fluid and sensitive during trapping and chi sao.
*A tense, stiff limb provides an easy handle for an opponent to push or pull with, whereas a relaxed limb provides an opponent less to work with.
*A relaxed, but focused limb, affords the ability to feel "holes" or weaknesses in the opponents structure (See Sensitivity section). With the correct forwarding these "holes" grant a path into attack the opponent.
*Muscular struggle reduces a fight to who is stronger. Minimum brute strength in all movement becomes an equalizer in uneven strength confrontations. This is very much in the spirit of the tale of Ng Mui.